1. The Gingerbread Castle and Christmas Tree at the Contemporary Resort
A Mary Blair inspired gingerbread castle sits in the Contemporary Resort as part of its annual Christmas display. The castle features rosy cheeked representations of the Fairy Godmother, Cinderella and Prince Charming. The three stand in front of the castle, which is decorated with blue spires and peppermint swirls. In the past, the castle was located near the Mary Blair mural, but was moved to a location by the windows near the Monorail entrance. Cinderella’s glass slipper sits in a display case to the left (as you face the castle), and a variety of goodies are available for purchase at a nearby stand. Of particular interest is a white chocolate Cinderella, which costs $25.00.
Step just outside the resort and you’ll get a glimpse of one of the most impressive Christmas trees in the Walt Disney World Resort. The enormous tree (over 70 feet tall) sits on the promenade and can be seen from the monorail station.
2. Wilderness Lodge
Another awe-inspiring Christmas tree sits in the lobby of Wilderness Lodge. As you would expect from a hotel whose lobby is filled with giant totem poles, the tree is covered with western inspired decorations, ranging from animals to tipis. Poinsettias also adorn the three. Wreaths and light covered fir garlands are located around the lobby, hanging from the natural wood beams that create the rustic ambiance of the hotel.
3. Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge offers one of the most breathtaking Christmas displays in Walt Disney World. An enormous tree sits in the lobby, decorated from top to bottom with African inspired decorations. Decorations include items like drums, baskets, wooden animal carvings, bows created using African textiles.
Stop by Jambo House while you’re at the lodge, and younger Guests can spend some time decorating gingerbread cookies. There’s a suggested donation of $5.00, which will go to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund. You can also pick up treats like African hot chocolate, made with Ghanaian milk and Tanzanian dark chocolates.
4. Santa’s Favorite Resort
The Swan and Dolphin resort bills itself as “Santa’s Favorite Resort.” In keeping with that theme, the hotel hold movie screenings of classic Christmas films, a nightly tree lighting, an elf named Kandy Kane, and Mr. and Mrs. Claus dressed in vacation garb. The hotel also boasts the “World’s Largest Chocolate Santa.”
5. Fort Wilderness
Perhaps one of the most unique holiday experiences can be found at Fort Wilderness, Walt Disney World’s camping themed resort. The location has cabins, tent camping and RV hookups. Guests at the resort have taken to decorating their sites for the holidays, providing a sort of homespun holiday charm that you can’t find anywhere else in Walt Disney World. Guests even hold unofficial “competitions” to declare the best display. Ft. Wilderness is also home to the “Golf Cart Parade.” Instead of floats, the parade features golf carts that guests have decorated. As though these weren’t enough, you can also take a sleigh ride while visiting Ft. Wilderness.
Next week we’ll take a look at some of the “lesser known” things you can do inside the parks (Jingle Cruise I’m looking at you!) There’s just so much to do at Walt Disney World during the holidays!
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